Government Appeals to Scrap Dealers to End Strike

The Federal Government has appealed to members of the National Association of Scrap and Waste Dealers Employers of Nigeria (NASWDEN) to suspend their ongoing industrial action and engage in negotiations concerning grievances impacting the steel value chain. This appeal was made by the Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaibu Audu, through the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Ambassador Nura Abba Rimi, in a statement issued by the Head of Press and Public Relations, Tine-Iulun M.A.

The industrial action was initiated due to complaints from NASWDEN regarding practices that undermine local scrap dealers, including alleged undervaluation of scrap metals, manipulation of weighing scales, direct purchases by steel companies, and the importation of billets. The government recognized these concerns and is consulting with the National Steel Council to develop measures that address the grievances while maintaining the interests of steel manufacturers.

The Minister emphasized the critical role of scrap dealers in supplying raw materials to steel producers.